Sciatica Massage

Sciatica Massage

Treating sciatica the natural way

Sciatica is a type of nerve pain that may be experienced anywhere along the sciatic nerves, particularly in the buttock or thigh area.

The sciatic nerves are the two longest nerves in your body – one for each of your legs. Both nerve bundles start at the base (lumbar region) of your spine, but then separate – running through your buttocks, down the inside of your legs, between your muscles, all the way to your feet.

When any part of your sciatic nerve is affected, then pain can radiate out along this major nerve from the point of origin.

The root cause of sciatica is usually not the sciatic nerve itself, but rather the compression of the nerve by the bones, joints and muscles of your lower body.

A compressed sciatic nerve can be extremely painful and even debilitating.

It is advisable to see your doctor to have your sciatica correctly diagnosed. If you have spinal problems such as disc misalignment or degeneration, your sciatic nerve may be affected by their movement. Likewise, if you have back or leg muscles that spasm, or are too tight – which compresses the nerve, causing pain.

How is massage helpful for sciatica?

Not all cases of sciatica benefit from massage therapy, especially those related to spinal problems. However, if your sciatica is caused by a muscle problem, massage therapy may be very beneficial.

Massage therapy can target the muscles that are compressing your sciatic nerve. Massage techniques, such as applying pressure and deep strokes, can gently loosen your muscles, as well as reduce muscle spasms or tightness. When your muscle fibres relax, they stretch and release their hold on your sciatic nerve.
Studies have shown that sciatic massage can reduce the need for pain killers. It is the most effective natural therapy to ease the effects of sciatica.

Your massage therapist at Massage Philosophy may recommend a series of massage sessions to ensure that your treatment is effective with long-term relief. They can also give you advice on what activities and lifestyle habits to avoid, and home massage techniques, as a follow-up to your treatment.